g/r/a/n/d Restaurant Review

: Long known as a see-and-be-seen establishment, rather than a place to eat, this Stamford hot-spot has evolved to become a desirable destination to wine and dine, too. Small-plate options include an array of sliders like barbecue short ribs, turkey and classic beef, and on the flipside, satay coconut chicken skewers with sweet mango chutney. The specialty burgers provide a hearty meal before the party begins. Selections like the Bing burger with cherry preserves, fresh mozzarella and sea salt are meant to be experimental, but the effect falls short. Instead, go for the brunch burger, a sort of twist on the croque madame with fried egg, ham and truffle hollandaise. Diners are mostly relegated to the glass-railed balcony on the same level with the DJ, who keeps the space pulsating until closing time on Fridays and Saturdays, while an energetic party scene develops around the first floor bar and the cozy couches in dark corners. Linger over a pot of chocolate fondue, or descend the illuminated steel staircase and lose yourself in the vibrant mix.